Glucosamine - Topotecan Interaction
Herbal: Glucosamine
Drug: Topotecan
Brand names:
Hycamtin
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 16, 2023
Interaction Details
Topotecan is classified as belonging to the following category: Topoisomerase Ii Inhibitors
Theoretically glucosamine may induce resistance to topoisomerase II inhibitors.
In vitro research suggests that glucosamine might induce resistance to etoposide (VP16, VePesid) and doxorubicin (Adriamycin) by reducing inhibition of topoisomerase II, an enzyme required for DNA replication in tumor cells. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Yun J, Tomida A, Nagata K, Tsuruo T. Glucose-regulated stresses confer resistance to VP-16 in human cancer cells through a decreased expression of DNA topoisomerase II. Oncol Res 1995;7:583-90.
Glucosamine Overview
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in the body, particularly in the fluid that surrounds joints. It is often used as a dietary supplement to help with joint health, particularly for conditions such as osteoarthritis. Glucosamine is believed to work by helping to reduce inflammation, promoting the repair of damaged cartilage, and slowing down the loss of cartilage.
There are several different forms of glucosamine supplements, including glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, and N-acetyl-glucosamine. Glucosamine sulfate is the most commonly used form in supplements. It is important to note that glucosamine sulfate is derived from shellfish (specifically the exoskeletons of shrimp, lobster, and crabs) and can be problematic for people with shellfish allergies.
Topotecan Overview
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Topotecan is used to treat small cell lung cancer (a type of cancer that begins in the lungs) that was successfully treated with a different chemotherapy medication but has returned no sooner than 45 days after the last dose of the first chemotherapy medication was taken. Topotecan is in a class of medications called topoisomerase I inhibitors. It works by killing cancer cells.
Glucosamine - More Interactions
Glucosamine interacts with 168 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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